A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Granada vs. Kotor for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Nightlife

Should you visit Granada or Kotor?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Granada or Kotor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote coastal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Granada and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Granada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Granada is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Kotor is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Granada is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also home to The Alhambra. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Granada different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kotor and Granada. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Granada or Kotor?

Granada is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Granada that are not to be missed. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Granada or Kotor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Kotor is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Granada is well known for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Granada is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Granada is not a resort destination.

Kotor has a few resort options worth checking out. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the world-class old towns in both Granada and Kotor.

The historic old town of Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Kotor?

Granada is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Granada is a great destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Kotor.

Granada is a family-friendly city. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kotor. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Kotor make for a great place to visit.

Granada makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada and Kotor are both great destinations for backpackers.

Granada is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

Kotor is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Students?

Granada is well known for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Granada is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Kotor is not popular with students.

Is Granada or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Granada is very good for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Granada or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kotor. The old town is best explored on foot.

Granada is a very walkable city. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

For even more information, also check out Is Granada Worth Visiting? and Is Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Granada?

How long in Granada or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Granada or Kotor. In our opinion, Kotor has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kotor than Granada. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Granada. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kotor, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Granada. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kotor that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Granada or Kotor?

In Granada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kotor is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Granada or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Granada or Kotor?

Granada is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Granada. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Granada or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Granada. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Kotor, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Kotor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kotor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kotor and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Granada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Granada than you might in Kotor.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Granada Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Granada or Kotor?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Kotor, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Granada or Kotor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Granada or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Granada during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Granada is around the same temperature as Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Granada. In the summer, Granada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Kotor. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Granada is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Kotor. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Granada as well as Kotor. Many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Granada usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Granada is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Kotor. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Granada